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Job Search Questions & Answers from the Experts at CV Genius

What is a degree classification?

A degree classification is your formal ‘grade’ after graduating from an undergraduate course at a British university.

The degree classifications in order from highest to lowest are:

  • first-class honours if your marks are above 70% (also written as 1st)
  • upper second-class honours for marks between 60% and 69% (also written as 2.i, 2.1, or II.i)
  • lower second-class honours for marks between 50% and 59% (also written as 2.ii, 2.2, or II.ii)
  • third-class honours for marks between 40% and 49% (also written as 3rd)

If you don’t achieve third-class honours, your university might award you an ‘ordinary pass’ without honours, but you may also fail depending on your university’s policies.

Here’s what a degree classification looks like on a degree certificate:

A university degree certificate showing the person awarded it gained upper second class honours.
Your degree classification will be written prominently on your degree certificate.

Include your degree classification on your CV.

Putting your degree classification and other academic qualifications on your CV helps employers see your ability level. Upper second-class honours are usually required for most graduate schemes and master’s degree courses in the UK.